Southern District of West Virginia

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man involved with others in distributing heroin in the Huntington area in 2014 and 2015 pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Bradley William McCutchen, 36, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.

On March 28, 2015, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force executed a search warrant at The Sandwich Joint, a restaurant located at 417 12th Street in Huntington. Agents had previously purchased heroin at the restaurant on several occasions. During the search, agents located and seized over 275 grams of heroin from a safe located on the second floor of the restaurant. Agents also seized various items of drug paraphernalia during the search, including packaging material, a digital scale, and multiple bottles of inositol powder, which is commonly used as a cutting agent in the preparation of heroin for distribution. McCutchen admitted that he used the restaurant to store heroin that he supplied to other individuals and distributed himself. McCutchen further admitted that between August 2014 and March 2015, he supplied the owner of the restaurant with heroin that he transported to Huntington from Detroit.

McCutchen faces at least 5 and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 10, 2017.

The Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to Social Security fraud, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Thomas Bennett, 58, entered his guilty plea to theft of public money.

Bennett admitted that he participated in a scheme in which his family members, in 1986, fraudulently applied for Social Security benefits. The fraudulent application was in the name of a family member who died in 1967 and members of Bennett’s family were not entitled to receive any benefits. Bennett subsequently learned about the fraud and in 2000, he joined his family in participating in the scheme. When the other family members died in 2012 and 2013, Bennett took over the Social Security scheme and continued to cash Social Security benefits checks that he knew he was not entitled to receive. Bennett assisted his other family members in cashing Social Security benefits checks dating back to the year 2000 totaling $36,927. As part of his plea agreement, Bennett has agreed to pay $36,927 in restitution.

Bennett faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on October 11, 2017.

The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the Social Security Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston is presiding over the case.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Sissonville man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Richard Lee Gandy, Jr., 40, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Gandy admitted that on September 12, 2015, officers responded to his residence and upon arrival, they found Gandy in his garage with approximately 50 grams of methamphetamine in plain view. Officers received consent to search the garage and found marijuana as well as items commonly used to distribute illegal drugs. Members of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department returned the following day and received consent to search the garage more thoroughly. Officers additionally obtained a search warrant for the surrounding outbuildings and property. During the execution of the search warrant and the consensual searches, law enforcement found a total of approximately 200 grams of methamphetamine, 11 marijuana plants, nearly 12 pounds of marijuana, digital scales, a room containing materials commonly used to grow marijuana indoors, precursor materials used to manufacture methamphetamine, and over $18,000 cash. Officers also recovered ATV’s, equipment, and tools that had previously been reported stolen from several different states. Gandy admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine in and around Kanawha County.

Gandy faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 12, 2017.

The case against Gandy was investigated by the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Logan County man pleaded guilty today to possessing stolen mail, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Keith Lee Caudill, 25, of Mallory, faces up to five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on October 5, 2017. Caudill has also has agreed to pay restitution as part of his plea agreement.

Caudill was a Highway Contract Route Driver with the United States Postal Service who distributed and collected mail along a rural postal route between Logan and Holden. Caudill admitted that on November 7, 2016, he was found in possession of 31 pieces of stolen mail that he had illegally opened and otherwise removed from the mail. The opened mail was recovered from a cooler in the front of his vehicle. Caudill admitted to agents of the United States Postal Inspection Service that he had stolen approximately 100 pieces of mail from along his route. He typically stole greeting cards, believing the cards were more likely to contain cash or gift cards. Caudill would keep the cash, attempt to redeem the gift cards, and destroy the greeting cards.

The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston is presided over the case.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man was sentenced today to six months in federal prison for possessing stolen mail, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Lee Spradling, 34, of Pinch, was also ordered to pay $4,489.32 in restitution.

Spradling admitted that he possessed a large quantity of stolen mail, and that he knew the mail in his possession had been stolen. Spradling admitted that in December 2015, he stole a box of checks from a mailbox and attempting to cash one of the checks. Spradling also admitted that in July 2015, he was found in possession of hundreds of pieces of mail stolen from the Elkview area. Law enforcement found the stolen mail in a car Spradling was driving. Spradling further admitted that he had no legal right to possess the mail, nor to cash any checks contained within the stolen mail.

The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Carol Casto announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Charleston returned two indictments charging a total of 23 individuals for their roles in a Southern West Virginia drug conspiracy. The indictments resulted from a long-term investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

One indictment charged 18 individuals with one count each of conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of crack and conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and one kilogram or more of heroin.

The defendants charged with that crime are Velarian Carter, also known as “L” or “Larry,” 38, of Beckley; Detria Carter, also known as “Tria,” 32, of Beckley; Rashaun Carter, also known as “Show,” 39, of Christiansburg, Virginia; Charles Hill, also known as “UNC,” 53, of Beckley; James Rodney Staples, also known as “Rod” or “Puerto Rico,” 38, of Woodbridge, Virginia; Karl Funderburk, also known as “Scoot,” 31, of Hurricane; Letina Carter, 55, of Beckley; Esau Burnette, also known as “Saw,” 38, of Beckley; Derrick Staples, 40, of Charleston; Dominic Copney, 23, of Beckley; Corey Larkin, 37, of Beckley; George Brockman, 37, of Kimberly in Fayette County; Shaun Jones, 39, of Beckley; Shaun Givens, 39, of Beckley; Jonathan Brockman, 33, of Kimberly; Jonathan Vincent Moore, 33, of Beckley; Shawn Akiem Anderson, 43, of Beckley; and Shaun Coleman, 45, of Raleigh County.

In the same indictment, some of the defendants identified above were charged with additional crimes. Detria Carter was also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Detria Carter was additionally charged with one count of carrying firearms during a drug trafficking crime. Funderburk was also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute crack and one count of using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. Larkin was also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Moore was also charged with one count of distribution of cocaine.

A separate indictment charged five individuals with one count each of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and heroin.

The defendants charged with that crime are Cheyenne Fragale, 29, of Boomer in Fayette County; Macon Fragale, 33, of Fayette County; Rory White, also known as “Dub,” 33, of Montgomery; Tiffany Ramsey, 26, of Boomer; and Donald Scalise, 60, of Fayette County.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

NOTE: The indictments in these cases are only accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court proceeding.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Ray Eads, 35, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

On May 18, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Eads’ residence on Smith Creek Road in South Charleston. During the search, officers found over 1,200 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, drug ledgers, and almost $12,000 cash. Officers also located several firearms and a bulletproof vest in Eads’ bedroom. Eads gave a statement admitting to possessing the drugs and guns discovered in his residence.

Eads faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 20, 2017.

The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin is presiding over the case.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Sissonville man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for a gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jeffrey Phelix, 32, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Phelix admitted that on October 25, 2016, he broke into a garage at the residence of a licensed firearms dealer and stole seven rifles. One of the rifles Phelix stole had a suppressor attached, which functions as a silencer to reduce the noise from firing the gun and is illegal to possess without the registration required by the National Firearms Act. Phelix was arrested after his fingerprint was recovered from the window of the garage. Phelix was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2011 felony conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for burglary by breaking and entering.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charleston Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman who was caught with heroin in 2016 was sentenced today to two and a half years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Ashley Dawn Smith, 24, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

On March 30, 2016, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Smith’s residence located at 1814 7th Avenue in Huntington. When agents entered the residence, Smith concealed approximately 45 grams of heroin on her person. During the search, agents recovered a loaded 9mm pistol, digital scales, a drug press, and a magic bullet blender used to mix heroin. Smith was arrested based on a warrant pending from Putnam County and transported to the Huntington Police Department where she provided agents with the heroin that she had hidden. Smith admitted that the heroin was intended for distribution.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution. The sentence was imposed by Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man who was part of a heroin trafficking ring was sentenced today to two and a half years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Darrell Eugene Woodside, 46, previously pleaded guilty to communicating by phone to facilitate the distribution of heroin.

Woodside admitted that from October 2015 through March 2016, while in Detroit, he communicated by telephone with his nephew, Daymeon Damar Johnson, who was residing in Seth in Boone County. Woodside additionally admitted that the purpose of these communications was to help arrange the delivery of heroin from Michigan to West Virginia for distribution. He also admitted making travel arrangements for runners carrying heroin and cash between Michigan and West Virginia.

This case is part of a long-term investigation of heroin trafficking in Boone County conducted by the West Virginia State Police and the U.S. Route 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The investigation has led to the convictions of several defendants. Daymeon Johnson, of Detroit, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin. Joyce Zornes, of Seth, was sentenced four years in federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of heroin. Christopher Priestly, of Bloomingrose, was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison for distribution of heroin. Robert Donavan Buzzard, of Bloomingrose, was sentenced to a year and nine months in federal prison for distribution of heroin. Gregory Scott Runion, of Seth, was sentenced to a year and a half in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The U.S. Route 119 Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks handled the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence and is presiding over these cases.

These cases are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man who violated his federal supervised release by committing gun and drug crimes was sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Marcus W. Taylor, 39, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to 20 years and eight months in federal prison and fined $20,000 for those offenses. As part of the sentence, the United States sought the forfeiture of assets or proceeds resulting from the distribution of controlled substances and the Court entered a $300,000 judgment against Taylor. Taylor was also sentenced to an additional two years in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.

On September 2, 2016, law enforcement executed search warrants on two residences maintained by Taylor and a car he possessed. During the execution of the search warrants, officers found over 20 pounds of controlled substances, which included over 14 pounds of crystal methamphetamine that a drug laboratory determined to be more than 95% pure, over a kilogram of cocaine, approximately 828 grams of crack, 800 grams of heroin, over $65,000 in cash, multiple firearms, digital scales, and other items often used in the distribution or trafficking of illegal narcotics. The controlled substances seized during the execution of the search warrants had an approximate street value in excess of two million dollars.

The case against Taylor was investigated by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime. This case was also brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston felon who illegally possessed guns while on federal supervised release was sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Damian Means, 29, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison for that offense. Means was also sentenced to an additional one year in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.

Means admitted that on August 23, 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. Means also admitted that on September 13, 2016, he sold two loaded Hi-Point .40 caliber semiautomatic pistols and one Hi-Point 9mm Carbine semiautomatic rifle to an undercover police officer. Means further admitted that during the gun deal, he accidentally discharged one of the firearms. The undercover officer making the controlled firearms purchase also observed Means selling methamphetamine to another individual.

On September 15, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Means’ residence. During the search, officers discovered an H&R .32 caliber semiautomatic pistol. In a statement to law enforcement, Means admitted to selling guns and drugs. Means was prohibited under federal law from possessing any firearm because of a 2012 conviction in the United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia for distribution of crack.

The case against Means was investigated by the Sheriff’s Tactical Operations Patrol (STOP Team) of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime. This case was also prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. - A St. Albans man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Christopher Carte, 43, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

On February 9, 2017, Carte was stopped by law enforcement conducting surveillance after he was seen leaving a room at the Super 8 motel in Dunbar and officers found approximately one ounce of crystal methamphetamine in his jacket pocket. Carte admitted that he had gotten the methamphetamine from a known individual in the hotel room, and that he intended sell the drugs and pay that individual with the proceeds.

Carte faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 13, 2017.

The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin is presiding over the case.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - A Putnam County man was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Scott Allen Forloine II, 36, of Scott Depot, previously pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. After Forloine is released from prison, he will be on federal supervised release for 25 years and will also be required to register as a sex offender.

Forloine admitted that in April 2015, he possessed over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sexual acts. Many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors. The images and videos were discovered on his personal computer located in his residence. Forloine was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute child pornography. The investigation also revealed that Forloine engaged in a pattern of sexually abusing and sexually exploiting a minor for approximately eight years.

The FBI, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, and the Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man was sentenced today to eight years and four months in federal prison for his role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. David Huffman, 37, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several packages that contained crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as “ice.” Since January 2014, several pounds of crystal methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area.

Huffman admitted that he traveled to Nevada on multiple occasions to obtain methamphetamine from Joseph Cooper. Huffman then brought the drugs back to West Virginia to distribute. Huffman further admitted that in February 2016, he traveled to Nevada with a codefendant, Morgan Light, to pick up approximately two pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement stopped the vehicle on the way back to West Virginia and located over 400 grams of methamphetamine that was lab tested and found to be at least 95% pure.

Multiple defendants have been sentenced to federal prison as a result of this large-scale methamphetamine trafficking investigation. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Cobb and Shayne Shamblen were both sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Harold Parsons was sentenced to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Light was sentenced to four years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Jon Bowman was sentenced to a year and a half in prison for using the mail to facilitate a drug crime.

Other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.

Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Bluefield drug dealer who sold hydromorphone while on federal supervised release was sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Marvin Gillespie, 65, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of hydromorphone. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to a year and a half in federal prison for that offense. He was also sentenced to an additional year and three months in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.

Gillespie admitted that on March 14, 2016, he sold hydromorphone to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place in Bluefield.

The Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John File is responsible for the prosecution. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted under the Bluefield Pill Initiative as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Princeton man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Frederick Torrefiel de Mesa, 38, entered his guilty plea to obtaining a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception and subterfuge.

As part of his plea agreement, de Mesa admitted that on February 22, 2016, in Princeton, he presented a forged prescription for zolpidem, a controlled substance more commonly known as Ambien, to a pharmacist at Hickman Rx Druggist. The prescription was filled the same day, and de Mesa admitted that he wrote the prescription himself without the consent of a doctor.

When de Mesa is sentenced on September 26, 2017, he faces up to four years in federal prison.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber is presiding over the case.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nicholas County man pleaded guilty today to a federal sex crime involving a minor, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. John Marshall Underwood, Jr., 44, of Gilboa, entered his guilty plea to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.

Underwood admitted that from December 14, 2016, through February 1, 2017, he used a cell phone to communicate with a woman he believed to be a prostitute who had custody of two minor nieces. The woman Underwood thought was a prostitute was actually an undercover law enforcement officer. Underwood also admitted that he communicated with the woman about engaging in commercial sexual activity with one of the nieces. On at least two occasions, Underwood communicated with an individual he believed to be the niece and attempted to entice her to engage in commercial sexual activity. The individual Underwood thought was the niece was also an undercover law enforcement officer. Underwood admitted that on February 1, 2017, he arranged a meeting with the individuals who were actually undercover officers and was arrested after he arrived at the meeting location. Law enforcement recorded all the calls between Underwood and the undercover officers.

Underwood faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Underwood will also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing is scheduled for September 20, 2017.

The investigation was conducted by the Charleston Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This prosecution is being brought as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – An inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at McDowell pleaded guilty today to possessing a weapon in prison, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Christopher Williams, 32, entered his guilty plea to possession of a weapon by an inmate of the institution.

Williams admitted that on August 25, 2016, he possessed a handcrafted weapon commonly known as a “shank.” The weapon was a piece of metal about six inches long, sharpened on one end, with a handle made of duct tape. The weapon was discovered during a search of Williams when a prison staff member observed it fall from his clothing.

Williams faces up to five years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 26, 2017.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Spencer woman was sentenced today to six months in federal prison for defrauding the United Way, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Rhonda Kelley Conrad, 49, previously pleaded guilty to credit card fraud. She was also ordered to pay a $3,000 fine and $10,684.99 in restitution to the United Way of Central West Virginia.

Conrad admitted that while she worked for the United Way of Central West Virginia in Charleston, she took a number of company credit cards and fraudulently charged goods and services for herself. From June to December of 2014, she admitted that she charged more than $6,000 in goods and services that she was not entitled to receive. Conrad further admitted that she used the credit cards to pay bills and to charge goods at stores such as Kmart and Sam’s Club. Additionally, Conrad admitted that she set up false accounts within the United Way electronic payment system. Conrad used these false accounts to fraudulently transfer more than $4,000 to her personal bank account. Conrad admitted that she had no authorization to use the credit cards or to electronically transfer the money from the United Way.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Mexican national was sentenced today to 16 years and eight months in federal prison for his role in an international drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Moises Gamboa, 52, of Rocky Point, Mexico, previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.

In today’s hearing, the Court found that Gamboa was the leader of a marijuana trafficking conspiracy operating out of Mexico and responsible for importing over 3,000 kilograms of drugs into the United States. The drugs were then distributed across the country, including in the areas of Zanesville, Ohio, and Huntington. Gamboa’s organization transported the drugs hidden in false walls inside tractor trailers and motorcycle trailers.

Gamboa admitted that in 2010, while in Mexico, he arranged for the transportation of 660 pounds of “very good marijuana” to Nitro. The drugs were to be concealed in the walls of a motorcycle trailer. Gamboa also admitted that he informed an individual cooperating with law enforcement that the driver would make contact to set up a meeting. The driver subsequently told the cooperating individual that he would be arriving in West Virginia on March 5, 2010. When the driver arrived in Nitro, law enforcement seized the marijuana hidden in the motorcycle trailer.

Gamboa was extradited from Mexico to the United States to face the charges associated with these crimes. A total of 14 other individuals were successfully prosecuted as a result of this investigation. Additionally, law enforcement seized over a million dollars in drug proceeds and an airplane belonging to this drug trafficking organization.

This prosecution was made possible through the cooperative efforts of several investigating agencies, including the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Department in Ohio, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department in Ohio, the United States Marshals Service, the Kentucky State Police, the Indiana State Police, the Huntington Police Department, and the Policia Federal Ministerial of Mexico. Several Drug Enforcement Administration agents investigated this case, including agents from Charleston, Columbus, Phoenix, Tucson, Chicago, Denver, and Hermosillo, Mexico.

Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.

This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit drug dealer was sentenced today to a year and nine months in federal prison for a heroin crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Romeo Devon Marbury, 29, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin.

Marbury admitted that on February 4, 2016, members of the DEA Task Force used a confidential informant to make a controlled acquisition of a free sample of approximately five grams of heroin near the Family Dollar on 5th Avenue in Huntington. Marbury additionally admitted that he provided the free sample of drugs to secure future sales. Marbury further admitted that he participated in additional sales of heroin to the confidential informant on February 24, March 3, and March 16, 2016, either by personally distributing the heroin or arranging for another individual to distribute the heroin.

The DEA Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is in charge of the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man pleaded guilty today a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Deandre Lamar Harris, 31, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of ammunition.

On January 18, 2014, members of the West Virginia State Police conducted a search at 345 Sixth Avenue in Huntington, a residence used by Harris. The search was conducted after law enforcement received information that a stolen firearm been taken there to pay a drug debt to another individual. Law enforcement located Harris in the residence, along with two other individuals, one of whom was alleged to have received the firearm. At the time of the search, Harris was in possession of several rounds of .25 caliber ammunition. Harris was prohibited from possessing ammunition under federal law because of felony convictions in 2007 in Cabell County Circuit Court for malicious wounding and for attempt to commit a felony.

Harris faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on October 2, 2017.

The West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is handling the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston woman was sentenced today to four years in federal prison and ordered to pay a fine of $2,500 for a gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Tiffany Shaffer, 28, previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Shaffer admitted that on January 9, 2017, she sold crystal methamphetamine at her residence to a confidential informant working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Shaffer also admitted that during the controlled buy, she displayed a North American Arms .22 magnum pistol to the confidential informant. On January 16, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Shaffer’s house. During the search, officers found two additional firearms that had been in Shaffer’s possession. Shaffer was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2012 conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for conspiracy to operate a clandestine drug laboratory.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking with existing local programs targeting gun crime. This case is also being prosecuted as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Putnam County man was sentenced today to a year and a half in federal prison for a drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jon Bowman, 58, of Poca, previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime.

As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several mail packages that contained methamphetamine, other drugs, or drug proceeds. Since January 2014, several pounds of methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area. Bowman admitted that he took part in this conspiracy by working with others to ship and distribute methamphetamine. On March 4, 2014, law enforcement intercepted a package that Bowman had helped arrange to send to St. Albans containing approximately 245 grams of crystal methamphetamine concealed inside an object shaped like a turtle. Bowman further admitted that he intended to use and distribute the methamphetamine throughout the Kanawha County area.

Multiple defendants have been sentenced to federal prison as a result of this large-scale methamphetamine trafficking investigation. Joseph Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Cobb and Shayne Shamblen were both sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Harold Parsons was sentenced to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Morgan Light was sentenced to four years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017. Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.

Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Larry Gaynor, 24, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin.

On October 26, 2016, Gaynor and another individual were pulled over in South Charleston. During the traffic stop, officers discovered approximately 100 grams of heroin, digital scales, baggies, and over $1,000 cash. Officers also discovered a 9mm handgun in Gaynor’s possession. Gaynor admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin.

Gaynor faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 6, 2017.

The South Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over the case.

This prosecution was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District. This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jermain Santell Hill, 38, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

In the early morning hours of October 15, 2016, in Charleston, officers with the Charleston Police Department were conducting a traffic stop when they heard a nearby gunshot. As officers ran towards the sound of the gunshot, one of the officers observed Hill leaving the area. The officer pursued Hill to a location behind a residence on Main Street and saw Hill drop an object. After Hill was detained, officers checked that location and recovered a loaded Kel-Tec .380 caliber pistol. Hill was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2015 conviction in the United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia for possession with intent to distribute crack.

Hill faces up to 10 years in federal prison on the gun charge when he is sentenced on September 7, 2017.

The Charleston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Roane County man who violated his federal supervised release by committing a drug crime was sentenced to prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Chadrick Rogers, 40, of Newton, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In today’s hearing, he was sentenced to three years and 10 months in federal prison for that offense. He was also sentenced to an additional two and a half years in prison for violating his federal supervised release. The sentences will be served consecutively.

On October 2, 2016, Rogers was arrested by members of the United States Marshals Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department on a warrant for violation of his federal supervised release. Law enforcement apprehended Rogers after he fled and hit a Deputy Marshal with his motorcycle during the pursuit. At today’s hearing, the Court increased the sentence by finding that the reckless flight created a substantial risk of death or serious injury. In a search incident to his arrest, Rogers was found in possession of approximately 33 grams of methamphetamine and over $3,800 in cash. Rogers admitted that it was his intent to distribute the methamphetamine in and around Kanawha County.

The case against Rogers was investigated by the United States Marshal Service and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A South Charleston woman was sentenced today to four years in federal prison for her role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Morgan Light, 25, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

As part of a comprehensive investigation, agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations intercepted several mail packages that contained methamphetamine, other drugs, or drug proceeds. Since January 2014, several pounds of methamphetamine were transported from California and Nevada into the Southern District of West Virginia via the United States mail or through individuals driving packages of drugs into the area. Light, as well as codefendants Mark Cobb and Shayne Shamblen, each admitted that they worked with Joseph Cooper, another codefendant, to arrange for the shipment and transport of methamphetamine to West Virginia.

Light’s handwriting was found on at least one package that contained over 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Shamblen admitted that he arranged for the shipment of that same package and intended to distribute the methamphetamine contained in the package. Cobb lived with Light and Cooper in Nevada for a short time, and also helped with the packaging and distribution of methamphetamine. Cobb’s fingerprint was found on a package containing approximately three grams of crystal methamphetamine that was sent to an individual in St. Albans. The methamphetamine from both of the packages was laboratory tested and found to be over 90% pure.

Multiple defendants have been sentenced to federal prison as a result of this large-scale methamphetamine trafficking investigation. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Cobb and Shamblen were both sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Harold Parsons was sentenced to four years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Several other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Jon Bowman previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on June 14, 2017. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017.

Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.

Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Logan man was sentenced today to a year and a day in federal prison for a tax crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Timothy Moore, 54, previously pleaded guilty to making a false statement on a tax return. Moore was also ordered to pay a $25,000 fine and over $127,000 in restitution.

Moore admitted that from 2010 through at least 2013, he diverted checks intended for his business, Auto Body Specialists, LLC, an auto body and collision company located in Logan. Moore also admitted that the checks were payment for auto body or other work, and that he diverted the checks by depositing them directly into his personal bank accounts rather than into his company accounts. Moore additionally admitted that he hired an outside bookkeeper to prepare his personal and business taxes and to organize the books and records of the business. He admitted that he did not tell his bookkeeper about the diverted checks, nor did he provide the bookkeeper access to his personal bank accounts. When the bookkeeper filed joint income tax returns for Moore and his wife, Moore admitted that he knew that his tax returns understated his income from his company, as the returns did not take into account those diverted funds. Moore further admitted that he authorized the bookkeeper to file the false returns.

In tax years 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, Moore diverted $414,273.58 into his personal accounts that was not reported on his tax returns. Moore also admitted that the total tax loss for his criminal conduct is $127,926.26, and that he owes that same amount to the IRS as restitution.

This case was investigated by agents of the IRS – Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorney Meredith George Thomas is handling the prosecution. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A St. Albans man was sentenced today to four years in federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Harold Lee Parsons III, 40, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

On February 5, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Parsons’ residence on 2nd Avenue in St. Albans. Parsons was present in his residence during the search and he opened a safe for law enforcement. Inside the safe were 12 baggies containing approximately 330 grams of methamphetamine. Parsons further admitted that he received the drugs from Joseph Cooper, a codefendant, and that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine.

As the result of a comprehensive drug investigation conducted by agents from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, and Homeland Security Investigations, several defendants have been sentenced to federal prison. Cooper was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Benjamin Childers, another individual involved with the transport of methamphetamine in this drug trafficking organization, was sentenced to 10 years and a month in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Cobb was sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Shayne Shamblen was also sentenced to seven years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Mark Bays was sentenced to five years in prison for maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine.

Several other individuals involved in the drug trafficking organization have entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. Morgan Light previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced tomorrow. Jon Bowman previously pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on June 14, 2017. David Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison when he is sentenced on June 21, 2017.

Gregory Crum and Diana Salazar Gamboa both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Crum faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. Gamboa faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Beth Hammonds pleaded guilty to using the mail to facilitate a drug crime and faces up to five years in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy. Crum, Gamboa, and Hammonds are all scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017.

Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for these prosecutions. United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., is presiding over these cases.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – A District of Columbia man was sentenced today to three years and one month in federal prison for a gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Nicholas Loukas, 31, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements on records kept by licensed firearms dealers.

Loukas admitted that in September 2015, he directed others to purchase firearms for him so that he would not be named in records required to be maintained by federally-licensed firearms dealers. When the purchases were made, the buyers listed their names on the forms required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, instead of Loukas’ name. Loukas further admitted that four handguns were purchased for him by others at Shooter’s Roost in Beckley. Loukas also admitted that another handgun was purchased for him by an individual at J & S Pawn in Beckley. As part of the investigation, law enforcement additionally recovered another handgun and a shotgun that Loukas unlawfully possessed. Loukas was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2002 robbery conviction in Maryland.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John File is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston drug dealer was sentenced today to three years and five months in federal prison for a methamphetamine crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Chelsea Fore, 25, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine.

On October 13, 2016, officers with the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team used a confidential informant to meet with Fore to purchase methamphetamine. The drug deal took place in the area of the Kmart located at 4th Avenue in Charleston. Once the informant gave Fore the prerecorded buy money, Fore got into the passenger seat of a BMW in the Kmart parking lot. After retrieving the methamphetamine, Fore got out of the car and gave the informant the drugs. Fore also admitted that she was responsible for distributing approximately two-and-a-half ounces of methamphetamine during the course of her drug trafficking.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for a drug-related gun charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Thomas Lee Nelson, 48, previously pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

On March 10, 2016, the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted a search of Nelson’s residence located at 1830 10th Avenue in Huntington. During the search, agents located and seized a loaded Cobray Model DD .410/.45 caliber handgun from a room later identified as Nelson’s bedroom. Agents also located and seized heroin from the same room. Nelson admitted that he possessed the handgun as protection for himself and for the heroin.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney R. Gregory McVey is responsible for the prosecution. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by working with existing local programs that target gun crime. This case was also brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Tyrese Antonio McMillon, 32, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

McMillon admitted that on May 27, 2016, in Parkersburg, he possessed a Lorcin .380 pistol. McMillon was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2006 felony conviction in Cabell County Circuit Court for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. 

McMillon faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 24, 2017.

The Parkersburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua C. Hanks is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty today to a child pornography crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jason Lee Smith, 39, entered his guilty plea to possession of child pornography.

Smith admitted that he possessed over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sexual acts. Many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors. The images and videos were located in Charleston on his personal computer. The investigation revealed that Smith was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute child pornography.

“We have no tolerance for those who put the safety of our children at risk,” stated United States Attorney Casto. “Crimes involving the exploitation and abuse of children result in serious charges that carry severe consequences. We will use every tool at our disposal to track down these sexual predators and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”

The sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2017.

The West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

This case is being prosecuted as part of an ongoing initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal gun crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Randy Allen Taylor, 34, entered his guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Taylor admitted that on September 4, 2016, he consented to a search by the Charleston Police Department of a hotel room at the Courtyard Marriott on Kanawha Boulevard, East, in Charleston. During the search, officers recovered a Kel-Tec, Model PF-9, 9mm pistol and approximately 3.7 ounces of methamphetamine. Following the search of the hotel room, Taylor consented to a search of a 2005 Lincoln Aviator that he had driven to the hotel. Inside the vehicle, officers recovered a stolen Cobra, Model CA-380, .380 caliber handgun.

Taylor admitted that he possessed both the guns and the drugs recovered in the searches, and that he intended to distribute the drugs. Taylor was prohibited from possessing any firearm under federal law because of a 2011 conviction in the Southern District of West Virginia for possession with intent to distribute oxycodone.

Taylor faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 30, 2017.

The Charleston Police Department, the United States Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Matt Davis is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in the United States by networking existing local programs targeting gun crime.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants caught receiving a shipment of crystal methamphetamine in Huntington pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Sean Bradsher, 34, of Hurricane, pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. As a result of the same investigation, Christian Duran, 34, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. 

On January 13, 2017, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force conducted a controlled delivery of approximately 25 pounds of marijuana and 150 grams of crystal methamphetamine to Bradsher and Duran at a residence on 4th Avenue in Huntington. The drugs were intercepted by agents the previous day after they were sent from California to Huntington. After Bradsher and Duran took possession of the drugs, agents executed a search warrant at the residence. Agents recovered the marijuana and methamphetamine along with a total of $13,842 in United States currency during the search. Duran admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine, and Bradsher admitted that he allowed Duran to use the residence to receive the methamphetamine from California. 

Bradsher and Duran both face at least 5 and up to 40 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on August 28, 2017.

The Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force, along with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department and the West Virginia State Police, conducted the investigation, with assistance from the West Virginia National Guard RAID Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men who previously pleaded guilty to heroin crimes were sentenced to federal prison today, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Earnest Moore, 41, of Columbus, was sentenced to 13 years and four months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Robert Douglas Black, 52, of Huntington, was sentenced to five years and 10 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing heroin.

From early 2013 until his arrest on July 23, 2014, Moore conspired with others to distribute heroin in the Point Pleasant area of Mason County. During the conspiracy, associates of Moore would frequently transport heroin from Detroit and Columbus to a residence in Gallipolis, where they would store and prepare the drugs for distribution. Members of the conspiracy would then distribute the heroin to customers in Gallipolis and to customers who traveled from Point Pleasant. Moore and others also frequently traveled to Point Pleasant where they used various residences to distribute the drugs.

In a separate prosecution, Black admitted that on May 4, 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at Black’s residence on 5th Avenue West in Huntington. On May 25, 2016, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Black’s residence and seized over $2,000 in cash, a set of digital scales, and additional heroin that Black admitted he intended to distribute.

The Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the Gallia-Meigs County, Ohio, Major Crimes Task Force, conducted the investigation of Moore. The investigation of Black was conducted by the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled these prosecutions. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.

These cases were brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two Bluefield drug dealers appeared in federal court today for hydromorphone crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Everett Ray Gillespie, 66, previously pleaded guilty to distribution of hydromorphone and was sentenced to six months in federal prison followed by three years of federal supervised release, with the first six months of supervised release to be served on home confinement. In a separate prosecution, Timothy Jordan, 48, entered his guilty plea to distribution of hydromorphone.

Gillespie admitted that on April 15, 2016, he sold hydromorphone to a confidential informant in Bluefield. He also admitted that he distributed hydromorphone on another occasion, and that law enforcement seized 35 hydromorphone pills, more than $500 cash, and a handgun when they executed a search warrant at his residence.

In a separate drug prosecution, Jordan admitted that on December 2, 2015, he distributed hydromorphone in Bluefield to an individual cooperating with law enforcement authorities. Jordan faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on September 5, 2017.

The Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigations. Assistant United States Attorney John File is in charge of these prosecutions. The hearings were held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.

These cases were brought under the Bluefield Pill Initiative, part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston methamphetamine dealer pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Shannon L. Mitchell, 36, entered his guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.

Mitchell admitted that on July 18, 2016, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place near Mitchell’s home on Maryland Avenue in Charleston.

Mitchell faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 8, 2017.

The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Nitro man caught selling methamphetamine while on federal supervised release pleaded guilty today to a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. John F. Parrish, Jr., 55, entered his guilty plea to distribution of methamphetamine.

Parrish admitted that on August 18, 2016, he sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The drug deal took place at the Exxon One Stop gas station on Goff Mountain Road in Cross Lanes. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s laboratory analyzed the methamphetamine and determined that it was at least 95% pure.

Parrish faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 23, 2017.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Clint Carte is responsible for the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants were sentenced today to federal prison for drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Miana Miller, 20, of Huntington, was sentenced to two years in prison for distribution of heroin. In a separate prosecution, Ashara Mayes, 29, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced to seven months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

Miller admitted that on September 15, 2015, she sold heroin to a confidential informant working with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force. The drug deal took place at the corner of 9th Street West and Monroe Avenue in Huntington. Miller also admitted that she was involved in two additional sales of heroin to the same confidential informant on September 24 and October 21, 2015. On May 15, 2015, law enforcement conducted a search of Miller’s residence on 9th Avenue in Huntington and found approximately 83 grams of crack in the pocket of a coat in Miller’s bedroom. Law enforcement also discovered a loaded firearm in another bedroom of the home. Furthermore, Miller admitted that from October 3, 2015, to February 19, 2016, she leased a residence located at 1438 Lynn Street in Huntington in her name for another individual. Miller admitted that she did not live at that location and that the residence was unoccupied. Miller additionally admitted that the residence was used as a “stash house” to store drugs. In a search of that location on February 19, 2016, law enforcement seized 98 grams of crack and 11 grams of heroin.

In a separate prosecution, on February 25, 2016, Mayes received a package containing cocaine and crack from codefendant Trevor Bethel in Atlanta. Mayes then transported the package to Huntington for Bethel in exchange for $500. After Mayes arrived in Huntington, she met Bethel and took the package to the residence of Jarrell Johnson, another codefendant, located on Rear 9th Avenue in Huntington. Laboratory analysis determined that the package contained over 160 grams of cocaine and over 11 grams of crack. For his part in the drug conspiracy, Johnson was sentenced to five years in federal prison. Bethel remains a fugitive.

The Huntington Police Department and the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation of Miller. The investigation of Mayes and her codefendants was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory McVey is handling these prosecutions. Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentences.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two defendants pleaded guilty today to federal drug crimes, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Jessica Ann Barnett, 29, of South Point, Ohio, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin. In a separate prosecution, Malik Muhammad Abdull Williams, 24, of Michigan, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack. 

Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Barnett participated with multiple individuals in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the Huntington area. At various times during the conspiracy, Barnett was provided with cash that constituted proceeds from heroin sales. Barnett would then wire the money to a third party in Michigan via money transfer companies such as Western Union and MoneyGram. Barnett transferred proceeds from heroin distributions on at least 27 occasions totaling approximately $26,410. On multiple occasions, Barnett also sold small amounts of heroin. Barnett faces up to 20 years in federal prison when she is sentenced on August 28, 2017.

In a separate prosecution, on May 2, 2016, members of the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force were conducting surveillance at the Greyhound Bus Station in Ashland, Kentucky, after receiving information Williams would be arriving on a bus in possession of drugs. Agents observed Williams exit a bus and enter a vehicle that traveled to Huntington. Agents conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle at 1st Street and 4th Avenue in Huntington and discovered Williams in possession of approximately 31 grams of heroin and 41 grams of crack concealed in his pants. Williams admitted that he intended to sell the drugs in Huntington. Williams faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 28, 2017.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling these prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

These cases were brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Fayette County man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Michael Terrell, 31, of Smithers, entered his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Terrell admitted that on December 8, 2015, he possessed over 160 grams of methamphetamine at his residence in Smithers that he intended to sell. Agents of the Central West Virginia Drug Task Force discovered the drugs during the execution of search warrant at Terrell’s residence. Prior to executing the search warrant, agents utilized a confidential informant to buy methamphetamine from Terrell at his residence on December 3 and again on December 6, 2015. During the execution of the search warrant, agents also seized approximately $10,000 cash that included prerecorded buy money used in each of the controlled buys.

Terrell faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 10, 2017.

The Central West Virginia Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney John Frail is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin.

This prosecution is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of illegal drugs in communities across the Southern District.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Charleston man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Albert Bowman, Jr., 40, entered his guilty plea to distribution of heroin.

Bowman admitted that on July 5, 2016, he sold heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. The controlled purchase took place inside Bowman’s residence on Russell Street in Charleston. Officers also executed a search warrant at the residence and located cash, additional drugs, and firearms. Bowman additionally admitted that he had distributed over 130 grams of heroin in the months leading up to the search warrant.

Bowman faces up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on August 14, 2017.

The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team. Assistant United States Attorney Haley Bunn is responsible for the prosecution. United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston is presiding over the case.

This case was brought as part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit man and a Huntington woman who participated with others distributing heroin in the Huntington area between 2014 and 2016 pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Derrick C. Morris, 27, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Dorothy D. Pannell, 23, entered her guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin. 

Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Morris admitted that he conspired with other individuals to distribute heroin that was transported to Huntington from the Detroit area. During the conspiracy, Morris received heroin that he would distribute in Huntington. Morris subsequently provided proceeds from the distributions back to individuals in Detroit. Morris enlisted the aid of multiple individuals to conduct wire transfers of cash from Huntington to the Detroit area. Morris also admitted that he used multiple residences in Huntington to distribute heroin, including residences located at 1922 7th Avenue and 612 Trenton Place. Agents were able to seize heroin and firearms from the residences during the investigation. As part of his plea, Morris admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of up to three kilograms of heroin.

Pannell admitted that she participated in the conspiracy during the months of April and May of 2016. During this period, Pannell permitted another individual to store heroin in her residence located at 729 Oxford Drive in Huntington. Pannell further permitted the individual to retrieve heroin from her residence on various occasions to make distributions in Huntington. On May 23, 2016, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Pannell’s residence. During the search, agents seized approximately 85 grams of heroin and three firearms.  

Morris faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Pannell faces up to 20 years in federal prison. They are both scheduled to be sentenced on August 21,  2017.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

These prosecutions are part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Raleigh County man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison and ordered to pay a $25,000 fine for a witness tampering crime, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Radcliffe, 60, of Shady Spring, was convicted in October 2016 of conspiracy to tamper with a witness following a three-day jury trial.

On December 23, 2015, Seth Radcliffe, the son of Mark Radcliffe, was facing kidnapping charges in an unrelated case. Witnesses for the United States testified at trial that Mark Radcliffe directed Jimmie Harper, a codefendant, to take actions to illegally influence Seth Radcliffe’s case. Harper testified that immediately following Seth Radcliffe’s arrest for kidnapping on December 23, 2015, he and Mark Radcliffe began discussing how they needed to get a witness to minimize Seth Radcliffe’s actions. Harper further testified that he and Mark Radcliffe formed a plan on December 24, 2015, to have a witness lie to law enforcement about the kidnapping.

Harper additionally testified that on January 24, 2016, he met with witnesses in Seth Radcliffe’s case in an attempt to influence testimony before a federal grand jury. Before the meeting, Harper testified that he spoke to Mark Radcliffe about the plan and obtained a letter written by Seth Radcliffe that was read aloud during the meeting. Harper also testified that during the same meeting, at Mark Radcliffe’s direction, he emphasized that the kidnapping charges against Seth Radcliffe needed to go away because of the severe penalties. Harper additionally testified that he suggested, also at Mark Radcliffe’s direction, limiting answers that could be damaging to Seth Radcliffe by responding with “I don’t know” or “I don’t remember.” Harper testified that Seth Radcliffe’s letter was not factually correct, and that he and Mark Radcliffe intended to corruptly influence witness testimony.

Text messages and phone calls admitted into evidence during the trial showed significant communication between Mark Radcliffe and Jimmie Harper prior to Harper’s meeting with the witnesses. Additionally, calls between Seth Radcliffe and Mark Radcliffe that were also admitted into evidence showed extensive communication regarding an unlawful strategy to get Seth Radcliffe’s charges dismissed.

During the sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Irene C. Berger stated that the defendant’s “conduct evidences clear disrespect for the law and criminal justice system,” and that the defendant’s actions “revictimized the target of the kidnapping.”

Harper was sentenced in August 2016 to seven years in federal prison for an unrelated federal arson crime, followed by a consecutive sentence of two years in federal prison for the witness tampering crime.

The West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI, and the North Carolina State Police conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Monica D. Coleman and Haley Bunn are in charge of the prosecution and tried the case before a federal jury. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the case and imposed the sentence.

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WASHINGTON – Attorney General Jeff Sessions will give the opening remarks at a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) 360 Heroin & Opioid Response Summit on THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017. The daylong event sponsored by the DEA, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America and the University of Charleston School of Pharmacy will bring together stakeholders and professionals working in law enforcement, prevention and education, treatment, recovery, health care and emergency response. The DEA’s 360 Strategy is designed to help cities and surrounding regions deal with the heroin and prescription drug abuse epidemic and the violent crime associated with it. The social media hashtag for the event is #DEA360Strategy.

WHO: Attorney General Jeff Sessions

WHAT: Speech at DEA360 Heroin & Opioid Response Summit.

WHEN: THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017
9:00 a.m. EDT

WHERE: University of Charleston
2300 MacCorkle Avenue, SE
Charleston, WV 25304
OPEN PRESS
(Camera Preset by for K9 Sweep: 8:15 a.m. EDT // Final Access: 8:40 a.m. EDT)

NOTE: All media must RSVP and present government-issued photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license) as well as valid media credentials. The RSVP and event location logistics should be directed to David Traube, Director of Communications for the University of Charleston, at (304) 352-0014 or [email protected].

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two men who participated in a heroin conspiracy in the Huntington area between 2014 and 2016 pleaded guilty today to federal drug charges, announced United States Attorney Carol Casto. Mark Steven Bush, Jr., 29, of Detroit, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Tiquan R. Lang, 22, of Port St. Joe, Florida, entered his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute heroin. 

Between November 2014 and June 8, 2016, Bush conspired with others who either sold heroin for him, rented or purchased cars in their names for him, stored heroin and guns for him, and transferred the proceeds of drug trafficking for him. During the conspiracy, those selling heroin for Bush would receive heroin on consignment or “front.” Bush would later receive proceeds from the sales. Bush enlisted the aid of others who permitted Bush to title cars in their names in exchange for payments of heroin. These individuals also provided transportation for Bush and for those selling heroin on Bush’s behalf. Bush utilized another individual to make trips to Detroit to deliver money and transport heroin and oxymorphone pills back to Huntington. Bush also stored and distributed heroin at various residences in the Huntington area. In a law enforcement search of 729 Oxford Drive in Huntington on May 23, 2016, approximately 85 grams of heroin and four firearms were seized, all of which Bush admitted he possessed. 

Lang admitted he participated in the conspiracy in early 2015. During this period, Lang permitted multiple individuals, including Bush, to stay in and distribute heroin from his apartment located at 1922 7th Avenue in Huntington. On multiple occasions, Lang received and distributed heroin when directed. On February 4, 2015, agents with the Huntington FBI Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Lang’s apartment. During the search, agents seized two firearms, and Lang admitted his participation in the conspiracy to law enforcement.  

Bush faces at least five and up to 40 years in federal prison. Lang faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Both defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2017.

The Huntington FBI Drug Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions. The plea hearings were held before Chief United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.

This case is part of an ongoing effort led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia to combat the illicit sale and misuse of prescription drugs and heroin. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, joined by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, is committed to aggressively pursuing and shutting down illegal pill trafficking, eliminating open air drug markets, and curtailing the spread of opiate painkillers and heroin in communities across the Southern District.

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